DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIMS NOW ON A SAFER PATHWAY

Apr 12, 2017

The NSW Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Pru Goward and Parliamentary Secretary for the Illawarra Gareth Ward have today announced that people experiencing domestic and family violence will receive tailored, multi-agency support with the roll out of Safer Pathway in the Lake Illawarra Local Area Command (LAC) from September 2017.

Ms Goward said Safer Pathway aims to ensure every domestic violence victim across NSW receives a consistent and effective response.

“Courageous victims who have been left traumatised and terrified will have easier access to the services they need. They will no longer have to re-tell their story to a multitude of government agencies,” Ms Goward said.

Safer Pathway brings together local representatives including Police, Health, Corrections, Family and Community Services and Education along with local specialist non-government domestic and family violence services, creating a streamlined, integrated referral pathway for victims who are ‘at threat’ or ‘at serious threat’ to their life, health or safety.

The NSW Government has committed $53 million over four years to expand Safer Pathway state-wide, with 21 new locations already rolled out in 2016-17.

In addition to the roll out covering the Lake Illawarra LAC, Safer Pathway will expand to a further six locations in September this year.

Minister for Police Troy Grant said the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government is committed to breaking the cycle of domestic violence in NSW.

“This roll out is a major step forward for those affected by the scourge of domestic violence, with coordinated help and support readily available,” Mr Grant said.

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward welcomed the announcement that Safer Pathway will be rolling out to the Lake Illawarra LAC.

“We are committed to breaking the cycle of violence and supporting victims of domestic violence through a Safer Pathway,” Mr Ward said.